Our Argentine striker know all about the unique flavours of cross-city rivalries having sampled the fierce battle for supremacy between Buenos Aires powerhouses River Plate and Boca Juniors when playing in his home country.
Having made the move to the Etihad earlier this year, Alvarez, along with his City team mates, is now preparing ahead of Sunday’s 188th Manchester derby.
He admits it’s a match he is eagerly looking forward to.
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And he says the fervour and support afforded him by the City fans since his arrival has already made a big impression on him and more than echoes the passion he experienced back in Argentina
“Yes, it will be a great match (between) two very important teams,” Alvarez declared.
“I think it is one of the most watched and most important classics in the world. It’s going to be nice to be there and we hope there will be a great game.
“Obviously, we are very excited to win the derby and to continue adding points in the Premier League.
“Yes, it is true that Argentina is very known for the fanaticism of the fans, but I think that here they have also shown me a lot of affection at Manchester City, in the stadium, on the streets, in the city.
“For this reason, I am very happy personally to have the opportunity to live these moments.”
The match-up could bring Alvarez into direct opposition with his Argentine compatriot Lisandro Martinez who joined United in the summer.
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The pair were on international duty for Argentina over the September break and Alvarez revealed that they had been talking about the derby on their flight back to Manchester.
“Yes, we travelled together on the return to Manchester,” Alvarez added.
“We were talking and making some jokes about the game on Sunday, but hey, always wishing each other the best and to have a great game.”
